Estrella Wayside Recreation Area

Show on map 602-867-5400 blm_az_pdoweb@blm.gov

The Estrella Wayside Recreation Area is in the Sonoran Desert National Monument. The area includes parking, picnic tables, grills, and fire rings just off Maricopa Road. Four primitive campsites are north of Maricopa Road off route 8002B. The campsites are small and can accommodate tents and passenger vehicles. High clearance vehicles are recommended along route 8002B. Dispersed camping is available along route 8002.

Route 8003, which follows the path of the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail, is about 4.3 miles north of Maricopa Road along route 8002. High clearance is required.

Hours and Seasons

Open year-round, 24 hours a day. It's best to enjoy the monument from late October to mid-April to avoid summer heat.

Features and Services

Facilities: Picnic tables, grills, fire rings, campsites, parking.
Access and Parking: The recreation area is along route 8002 north of Maricopa Road. A parking and picnic area is near the highway and is flat and unpaved. Campsites are about 3.5 miles from the Maricopa Road turnoff via route 8002 and 8002B. Parking spaces at these campsites are small.
Cell Service: Limited; reception is spotty in this remote area.
Toilets: None.
- The nearest toilet is at Gap Well, about 6 miles west along Maricopa Road, and about 1.3 miles north along route 8004.
- A toilet is also available at Margies Cove East Trailhead, about 6.5 miles north along route 8002, then about 1.5 miles west on route 8002A. High clearance is required.
Drinking Water: None.
Pets: Permitted on leash; please remove pet waste.
Camping: Four primitive campsites are along route 8002B, north of Maricopa Road. High clearance vehicles are recommended. Primitive, dispersed camping is allowed on nearby BLM lands; check local regulations for fire and camping guidelines.
Nearby Amenities: Gila Bend and Maricopa offer food, fuel, lodging, and basic medical services.

Respect and Protect

Historic and archaeological sites are protected by law. Please leave cultural and historical artifacts untouched. By practicing responsible outdoor ethics, you help ensure future visitors can enjoy this remarkable site.

Directions

From Gila Bend, drive east on West Maricopa Road to State Route 238. Continue for 18 miles. Route 8002 and the Estrella area are on the left side of the road. From Maricopa, drive west on State Route 238 for 23 miles. Route 8002 and the Estrella area are on the right side of the road. The Estrella Wayside picnic and parking areas are just off Maricopa Road at the beginning of route 8002. To reach the campsites, continue north on route 8002 for about 2.5 miles, then turn left (west) onto route 8002B for about 1 mile.